Vol. 478 No. 5
83 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Education the procedures to be followed by parents who wish to set up a new multi-denominational primary school in order to receive formal recognition from her Department; the financial and other assistance which could be made available from her Department in this regard; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11498/97]
A parent group wishing to establish a multi-denominational school should submit a formal application in this regard to the planning section of my Department in Tullamore. The application should include details of the number of pupils expected to enrol in the proposed new school in the initial and subsequent years and should also indicate how it is proposed to accommodate the school. Successful applicants would be required to nominate a patron and appoint a board of management in accordance with standard procedure.
On receipt of official recognition, schools may apply to my Department for grant-aid in respect of teacher salary and towards current operating costs, including the rental of temporary accommodation.Capital grant-aid may be claimed when permanent recognition is granted. The staffing ratio and levels of grant aid are the same as those which apply to denominational schools.
The Commission on School Accommodation Needs is at present reviewing the criteria for the recognition of new primary schools, including multi-denominational schools, as part of its remit. The existing criteria will be reviewed in the light of the commission's recommendations.
